In its consumer guide, they suggests that before you set out to buy any piece of furniture, you should first determine what best fits for your needs. Every piece of furniture has distinguishing features, which say whether it is a good buy for you or not. When furnishing your living room, for example, a well-made sofa that catches your eye in the furniture store may be ideal if you use your living room mostly for receiving guests. But a sofa acquired for that purpose in mind will be a bad idea if your living room doubles as family room.

* Mediterranean: This home decorative style conjures the Italian and French seaside. Think warm yellows and earth tones, as well as simple patterns set off by blue and gold accents. Chunky, natural wood tables fit right in, as do patterns of sunflowers or ships. * Oriental: As the name implies, this style invokes the simple and sleek lines of the Orient. Less is more with this look, so choose pieces like teak and lacquered tables, armoires and coffee tables sparingly. Accessorize with Oriental rugs, silk prints and pictures of dragons or Japanese seascapes.

If you are design minded, and know how you want your family room to feel and look, then a store will provide you with each unique piece that you are looking for. If on the other hand, you are someone that cringes at the thought of putting together a room, plenty stores can also provide you with complete room sets. Whether you are searching for a specific item or if you are looking for a complete room set, a good salesperson will make sure you find the right living room furniture and the right feel that you desire. Before getting started on your creating your new masterpiece, here are some ideas and decorating tips that may prove helpful to your overall design.